Red squad members, Reina, Riera and Arbeloa are with Spain as Vicente Del Bosque team prepares for the 2010 World Cup qualifiers versus Estonia and Belgium. The three Anfield club players all spoke in press conferences in the lead up to Saturday’s game, and when asked for their preference as to who should win the Ballon d’Or, they all agreed that Torres should be awarded with the prestigious award.

Riera, who is over the moon since his move to Merseyside, commented that, “I am doing good things alongside Fernando Torres, who is a partner and a good friend. To me, he should win the Ballon d’Or.”

When asked, Liverpool defender Alvaro Arbeloa feels that both, “Torres and Casillas deserve the award, along with Xavi and many other players, but I would give it to Fernando Torres.”

Pepe Reina praised his friend and team-mate, and confirmed that he wants the prize to be won by a Spaniard. “Torres’ year has been out of this world, Cristiano Ronaldo has scored a lot of goals, Iker has played at a brilliant level, and Messi’s last season was unbelievable. But I would give the award to a fellow Spaniard.”

Photo: J.A. Sirvent